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What was your purpose to enroll in GraSPP?
As a student with an academic background in Agricultural Economics and a passion for international trade, I have always been interested in Japan’s agricultural policies under trade liberalization. Therefore, as one of the leading universities in Japan, GraSPP was undoubtedly my dream choice, as it would allow me to learn directly from policymakers and exchange ideas with knowledgeable scholars. In addition, I had the precious opportunity to visit Japan as an exchange student in 2015. I was deeply attracted by the beautiful culture and wished to explore more about this historical country.
What was attractive or stimulating about GraSPP?
While reading the classes offered by GraSPP, I was amazed by the various courses offered and the Professors’ abundant and solid background. I even started to arrange my class schedule before the semesters started, trying to fit in all the courses I would never want to miss. The two-year study has proved that joining GraSPP was the right decision ever. I had absorbed knowledge taught by professors with practical experience in government and international organizations, with courses related not only to the area of trade but also to the financial and medical systems.
In addition to the courses, the classmates and friends I have met in GraSPP have also become valuable assets in life. Academically, it was a great honor to learn from the talents of the world by solving problem sets and preparing coursework together. Culturally, making friends from different backgrounds broadened my horizons by understanding the various traditions and the similarities and divergences across the countries.
Please share your memorable experiences/courses in GraSPP
I enjoyed my study in GraSPP. The International Field Workshop led by Professor Nishizawa provided us with a fruitful experience of visiting several notable organizations in Southeast countries, such as the Asian Development Bank in Manila and Doi Tung Village in Chiang Rai, to understand how to utilize textbook knowledge in practical use. The International Financial Institutions (IFIs) taught by Professor Kawai has enriched my financial knowledge and provided the precious opportunity to discuss related questions with experts from various organizations. Japanese Foreign Economic Policy offered by Professor Iida has further encouraged me to learn more about multi-national organizations, especially the model APEC, which motivated me to apply for the internship in the APEC later. In addition, the Econometrics for Public Policy instructed by Professor Kawaguchi had also built up a solid foundation for my capability in data analysis.
Outside of regular courses, I also obtained the opportunity to intern at the Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI), where I had the chance to discuss my research questions with the researchers and gain experience in conducting research. Furthermore, enrolling in the Global Leader Program for Social Design and Management (GSDM) was the best decision during my studies. I met with colleagues from different academic backgrounds and was also able to extend my knowledge comprehensively by collaborating on several projects and discussing the questions from various perspectives.
What are the advantages of studying in Japan?
Among the many advantages of studying in Japan, improving my Japanese ability was definitely the most important. I had learned Japanese for three years before studying in Tokyo; however, I barely had the opportunity to put my language skills into actual practice. After going to Japan, I urged myself to communicate with locals in Japanese, go to traditional grocery stores to memorize all the product names in Japanese, and watch Japanese news and variety shows to train my listening. Even though there are still spaces for improvement, I became more confident talking with people in Japanese after the two-year “training.”
Moreover, Japan has a vibrant culture and fascinating nature. There was always an opportunity to refill your energy by visiting the coastal and mountainous area, relaxing in the hot spring for a weekend trip, or finding inner tranquility by visiting the ancient temples. Furthermore, as a seafood lover, enjoying the fresh and diverse dishes at a local Japanese restaurant was always a blessing.
What has GraSPP meant to your life?
If I had not chosen to become a GraSPPer, my life would not have been as colorful as it is now. After graduating from GraSPP, I returned to Taiwan to work at a governmental-based think tank for trade policy analysis. After two years, I decided to pursue my second master’s in international economics at the Geneva Graduate Institute. In the summer of 2022, I had the opportunity to complete my internship at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) to acquire more insightful observations on regional economic development. Later, in 2023, I joined the Agriculture and Commodities Division at the World Trade Organization (WTO) as a Young Professional, which is my dream job at my dream organization, where I can get first-hand information on trade negotiation and experience the world dynamics in person. In conclusion, all my experience in GraSPP has encouraged me to pursue my dream career path and equipped me with the essential tools to tackle every task confidently.
Message to the present and future GraSPPers
Dear fellows, please cherish your time at GraSPP and take advantage of the opportunities to the utmost possible—participate in the courses that interest you, manage your time well for extracurricular activities, and apply for all the international opportunities that match your career path. Most importantly, spend time and create memories with your classmates and friends because they are the most valuable and unforgettable treasures that will accompany you for life.